"He was very passionate about his work, worked very hard and really cared about the people he worked with -- co-workers and all," his wife, Lisa Harlan, 51, said Tuesday night in a phone interview from her home. "He tried very hard to do the best he could for the clients as well."

She said Harlan had numerous interests -- sailing, riding his motorcycle and traveling, to name a few.

"He was a quick and capable judge of character, and behind the scenes made Portland a safer place to live -- for both regular citizens, people who work in mental and addiction health agencies, and their clients," Renaud said in an email to The Oregonian. "John loved his wife and kids, he loved his family and faith, he loved this community. He is irreplaceable."

Harlan leaves behind two children, Sam, 20, and Jocelyn, 16. Service arrangements are still pending.